Space systems computer-aided design technology

Capabilities and advantages of a systemsoriented interactive computer-aided design and analysis system are presented. A single user at an interactive terminal can create, design, analyze, and conduct parametric studies of Earth-orbiting spacecraft such as space station, large antenna and technologically advanced Earth-orbiting spacecraft. The approach is particularly useful in the conceptual design phase where various missions and spacecraft options are to be evaluated in a timely, cost-effective manner. The Interactive Design and Evaluation of Advanced Spacecraft (IDEAS) system consists of an integrated system of about 40 multidiscipline technical applications programs; efficient executive, data base, and file management software, and extensive interactive graphics display capabilities. Current capabilities and planned and potential augmentations to the IDEAS system are reviewed.